The Southeast Branch is closed August 4 through September 5, 2017 to complete remodeling work. Patrons can pick up items on hold at the L.H. Bluford Branch. The outside book return will remain accessible during this period. Learn More »

The chaos and violence happening in the African country of Sudan—one of gravest tragedies in modern world history—is the focus of a discussion featuring the authors of Courageous Journey: Walking the Lost Boys’ Path from the Sudan to America, on Sunday,November 16, at 3 p.m. at the Plaza Branch, 4801 Main St.

Over two million Sudanese have been killed in that country’s brutal civil war, and thousands more have been tortured or sold into slavery. Courageous Journeytells thecompelling true story about the bravery of two young men who walked for months across barren land, menaced by starvation, disease, wild animals, and gunfire, and now live in Kansas City.

Ayuel Leek Deng has completed his A.A.S. degree in Paralegal Technology from Penn Valley Community College in Kansas City. He is studying for a B.S. in Political Science. Beny Ngor Cholwas the Community Base rehabilitation manager/trainer for the International Rescue Committee in Africa. He has completed an A.S. degree from Penn Valley Community College and is studying for his B.A. at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Barbara Youree, who will lead the discussion program, has taught English and French and is the author of four novels and six children’s books and numerous articles. She has a B.A. from Emporia State University and an M.S. from Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City, Tennessee.

A segment from a 60 Minutesprogram about the lost boys of Sudan that was partially filmed in Kansas City will also be shown during the presentation.

Copies of Courageous Journey will be available for sale, and the authors will sign copies purchased at the event.